Matt Taylor believes he can use his Ex-files to help mastermind Euro glory for his fired-up Glasgow stars.
The Warriors go into battle with Exeter in Sunday’s Heineken Cup showdown at Scotstoun. And defence guru Taylor reckons his insider knowledge of Chiefs supremo Rob Baxter could be crucial to a precious home triumph.
He played for the ambitious West Country outfit and forged a close friendship with Baxter who is rated one of the most innovative coaches in the English game.
Taylor said: “I was there back in 2005 when Rob was captain and we lost out to Bristol in the race to get to the Premiership.
“Bristol were fully professional at that time and Exeter were only semi-pro. I got to know Rob really well and when I went back home to Australia after my spell there we kept in contact.
“He is a very good coach who makes guys want to play for him. I look back fondly on my experience down there and playing under him. They have come a long, long way since then and I am delighted to see them doing so well.”
Taylor went on: “For me, Glasgow and Exeter are very similar set-ups in terms of culture. We both have squads who fight for each other and have a really good work ethic.”
While Taylor made it clear the depth of his admiration for Baxter and his men, he said: “It is all about the Warriors this weekend.
“In this tournament you must win all your home games, so it is crucial.
“Exeter will be buoyant after their bonus-point win against Cardiff at Sandy Park and their display against Gloucester the previous week. We have fantastic fans at Scotstoun, but the fans can’t win games for you.
“It will be all about 23 of our guys fronting up. Sure, we beat them pre-season down at their place but that was a friendly and will have no bearing.”
Taylor is convinced the Warriors returned from the defeat in Toulon with many more positives than negatives especially the consolation four-try point.
He went on: “I don’t think many teams will go there and get anything. This time last year we had played well against Northampton and came home with nothing to show for our efforts.
“At the moment, we have taken a point from one of the most powerful teams in the world. We are known as a squad that sticks together and I imagine we will see a really good response from the players.”